Delicious Backyard BBQ Menu Ideas for Your Next Cookout

Put together the most delectable backyard BBQ menu with this curated list of easy cookout foods. Discover new grill and smoker recipes that will add excitement to your next barbecue party.

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Quick tip for your next BBQ party

If you’re planning a large BBQ, run a few trials on any new recipes beforehand. Long cooks like smoked brisket and pulled pork are best prepared the day before. Dishes that are best served piping hot—like Philly cheesesteak burgers or queso dip—should be practiced and timed so you have ingredients and timing locked in on the big day.

BBQ appetizers

Great cookouts start with appetizers that whet appetites and can be prepped ahead. Choose easy, flavorful starters that let guests nibble while you manage the main grill.

Grilled chicken wings

Super crispy grilled chicken wings tossed in buffalo sauce are a foolproof cookout favorite. They’re easy to prep and always popular as a BBQ appetizer.

Make-ahead Mexican salad

A vegetable-forward Mexican salad with black beans and corn is perfect with chips and doubles as a topping for tacos or pulled pork sandwiches. It stores well and can be assembled ahead to save time the day of.

Smoked peach salad

Add smoked peaches to a salad with creamy feta, sliced almonds, and a balsamic glaze for a bright, summery course that complements grilled proteins.

Smoked nachos

Smoked nachos are an excellent make-ahead-friendly appetizer. Top tortilla chips with smoked chicken, pulled pork, or steak, add onions, jalapeños and plenty of cheese, then melt until bubbly for an easy crowd-pleaser.

BBQ main dishes (that aren’t burgers)

For guests who want something other than burgers, offer a selection of steaks, sausages, poultry, and large smoked cuts that make a statement.

Grilled ribeyes

Grilled ribeye steaks are rich and satisfying. Serve them when you want to impress—simple seasoning and proper grilling deliver incredible flavor.

Grilled brats

Bratwurst grill quickly and feed a crowd. They’re juicy, easy to cook, and pair well with buns and simple toppings. For a different method, brats can also be oven baked.

Hotdogs wrapped in bacon

Bacon-wrapped hotdogs are indulgent and fun. They can be grilled, oven-baked, or air-fried and are easy to customize with cheese and other toppings.

Grilled chicken thighs

Chicken thighs are economical and forgiving on the grill. They feed a crowd well and cook in batches—mastering indirect and direct heat makes them juicy every time.

Smoked chicken thighs

Smoked chicken thighs pick up deep, savory flavor. Brushing with BBQ sauce near the end creates a sweet, candied finish that guests love.

Grilled skirt steak

Marinating skirt, flank, or coulotte steaks in a citrus-soy blend amplifies flavor. Slice thin across the grain and serve with vibrant sides.

Smoked whole chicken

Smoked whole chicken is straightforward and flavorful without requiring a brine. It’s a great beginner-friendly smoker recipe that feeds several people.

Smoked turkey breast

Smoked turkey breast can be made without brining and works well on pellet grills or kamados. Make it ahead and offer DIY turkey-avocado sandwiches so cooking the day-of is simple.

Smoked brisket flat

Cooking the brisket flat shortens time compared with full brisket. Trim, rub, and wrap appropriately, then slice for sandwiches—perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.

Burgers for cookout parties

Burgers are a cookout staple. From simple homemade patties to smoked and sous-vide variations, there are plenty of ways to offer juicy, well-seasoned burgers that suit any crowd.

Homemade burger patties (a must)

Making patties from scratch takes minutes and delivers far better texture and flavor. A simple approach—ground beef, salt, and pepper—lets you finish them on a grill, smoker, or in a cast-iron skillet.

Smoked burgers

Smoked burgers are forgiving and convenient for parties—you can set them on a pellet smoker before guests arrive and they’ll stay tender and juicy. Add cheese 10–20 minutes before they finish so it melts into a smoky topping. Smoked bacon makes an excellent garnish.

Sous vide burgers

Sous-vide burgers are cooked gently in a water bath—often ahead of time—so they stay super tender. Finish them with a high-heat sear or a mayo-sear on a flat top when guests arrive for a perfect crust.

Sous-vide lamb burgers

For a gourmet twist, try sous-vide lamb burgers. They pair beautifully with feta, caramelized onions, and tzatziki for a Greek-inspired option that stands out on any holiday or summer menu.

Caramelized onion topping for burgers

Caramelized onions are an easy, make-ahead topping that add depth and sweetness. Cook low and slow with oil, salt, and a touch of brown sugar or butter for an hour until deeply golden. They’re great on burgers, eggs, and tacos.

Side dishes for BBQ menus

Sides elevate the main event—simple grilled vegetables and potatoes or more involved casseroles each have a place. Pick a mix of make-ahead and quick finishes to balance prep time.

Smoked corn on the cob

Smoked corn is quick and full of flavor. Brush with butter and smoke until tender for a classic side that pairs perfectly with ribs, smoked pork, or grilled meats.

Dessert ideas for BBQ menus

Smoked desserts are a lovely finish—think smoked peach cobbler or fruit pies. For easy, kid-friendly options, s’mores are always a hit: let guests assemble and warm them on the grill.

Bake apple hand pies ahead of time

Mini apple hand pies are easy to make and can be frozen for later. They look great, travel well, and are a convenient make-ahead dessert for a crowd.

Raspberry turnovers

Raspberry or other berry turnovers can be prepared a day in advance and provide a fresh, fruity finish to your cookout menu.

Have awesome backyard BBQ parties, foodies!

Try even one of these recipes and your guests will leave happy and well fed. Balance make-ahead dishes with fresh finishes, plan timing for long cooks, and choose a mix of crowd-pleasers and a few showstoppers.

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Pro tip: One of the easiest ways to get perfectly cooked BBQ is using a reliable meat thermometer so you can track doneness without guesswork.